Sinn Féin TD for Waterford, David Cullinane, has criticised the government for failing to address the ongoing housing crisis, speaking today at the Raise the Roof rally in John Roberts Square, Waterford.

Deputy Cullinane highlighted the severity of the issue, citing the latest official figures on homelessness and housing insecurity.

He said: "The latest housing figures show how serious the problem has become. There are now 16,614 people in emergency accommodation, 11,376 adults and 5,238 children.

"That includes 2,443 families who have nowhere permanent to live. These are not just numbers. They are real people, children living in hotel rooms, parents under pressure, and workers who can’t afford a place to live.

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"Successive governments have failed these families and should be ashamed. The sad reality is that this government is not doing enough to protect people from eviction.

"Almost 10,000 eviction notices were issued in the first six months of this year. Without an eviction ban, many of these families could lose the roof over their heads.

"This crisis will not be fixed by the private market alone. We need real investment in public housing, real action, and a government that puts people first."

Deputy Cullinane also outlined Sinn Féin's housing plan, 'A Home of Your Own', which proposes building thousands of social and affordable homes annually, introducing a full eviction ban, cutting and freezing rents, and ensuring public land is used for public housing.

He added: "Housing should be a basic right and the people of Waterford and all across this state deserve affordable and secure homes. It's time for real change in housing policy."